According to widespread reports, Mils Muliaina will join Italian side Zebre at the end of the season, after the expiration of his Connacht contract.
Becoming Connacht’s first ever All Black, Muliaina- who amassed one hundred test caps for New Zealand in a sterling international career- has played ten times for the Westerners this season.
Speaking on Muliaina’s departure, Connacht’s head coach, Pat Lam, championed the impact Muliaina had on his young squad.
“Even in one quick year, Mils has made a lasting contribution to Connacht Rugby. His influence on and off the field with our young squad has been invaluable and I know the players, particularly the backs, have benefited from his vast experience, furthered Lam, formerly of the Auckland Blues.
“A big part of our growth as a team this season has been around challenging each other to reach higher standards and Mils was massive in driving this.
“He has really embraced the Connacht culture and he’s made a big effort to get out amongst the community and I know the supporters have enjoyed meeting and getting to know him.
“For me personally it was fantastic to have the opportunity to work with him again and on behalf of everyone, I’d like to thank Mils and wish him all the best in Italy and with Zebre.”
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